As part of a WABC-TV technology show, we did a survey of computer users and learned that pop-up windows are what they hate most. But I didn’t need a poll to tell me that those annoying ads for wireless cameras, travel sites, etc, are getting on everyone’s nerves.
Here are two ways of dealing with them.
1. Anti-pop-up software
Two suggestions for free software to download and install on your computer:
- PopupStopper.net: This works well, but only has a PC version right now. Look for the free version; if you want more control, you can upgrade.
- Webwasher.com: Available free for personal use, WebWasher works on Mac, PC and Linux computers.
One thing to keep in mind is that there are benign uses of the underlying technology of pop-up ads. There’s a chance that some of the sites you use may not work as efficiently when you install these — though that problem has been reduced recently.
2. Keyboard Kibosh
Instead of downloading software, you might want to try a simpler solution. Every time you get a pop-up ad, hit the “W” key while holding down the “Ctrl” key (on a Mac, hold down the “Apple” key when you hit “W”) — that will get rid of that particular ad. It won’t prevent future pop-ups, but if you learn to do it fast, with the fingers of your left hand, it almost feels like playing a video game. Almost.
If you know folks in the New York City/NJ/CT area who need help with technology, you might consider asking them to tune in this Sunday morning to “Computers 101,” the half-hour WABC-TV special for which we did the survey. Sunday, April 14, 11-11:30 a.m. Segments include: tips on buying/upgrading a computer, smarter Web surfing, catching up with your kids, dealing with junk e-mail, keeping kids safe online and broadband vs dial-up. Cameo appearances by Halle Berry, Susan Lucci, Regis & Kelly and WABC-TV anchors Roz Abrams and Bill Ritter. If you are not in the area, you can still get all the tips at http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/technology/WABC_2002_computer101.html
[ The deadline for the SAJA Journalism Awards contest — for coverage of South Asia and South Asians in North America, among other topics — has been extended to April 17, 2002. Please tell your contest coordinators/editors — a great way to get recognition for some of your 9/11-related stories. Categories for non-South Asians, too! Details: http://www.saja.org/awards.html ]
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